Health authority believes new health plan could be in place within two years, writes EITHNE DONNELLAN
NUMEROUS REPORTS have in recent years called for the introduction of a unique patient identifier in the Irish healthcare system. It was called for in the national health strategy in 2001, in the national health information strategy in 2004, in the blueprint for changing mental health services in 2006, in the cancer control strategy, also in 2006, and by the Commission on Patient Safety in its report in 2008.
Yesterday another report, this time from the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa), recommended its introduction once again, stressing it was doing so to improve patient safety.
A group chaired by the Department of Health is now looking at how the State could go about the introduction of such a system, which would allow patients to be tracked through primary care as well as public and private hospitals and the social care system.
Hiqa believes the system could be put in place within two years.
So how would it work? Hiqa has recommended a brand new number/patient identifier be issued to each person in the State that would be used only for health and social care purposes. It would be governed by a trusted central authority which would process requests for new numbers.
It says the use of these identifiers would result in a “more seamless journey” for patients though the healthcare system. As they moved through the system, the potential for their information to accompany them would be greatly enhanced. This would increase patient safety and reduce the need for unnecessary repetition of tests and investigations. By increasing safety it could also be expected to improve patient confidence in the healthcare system.
Unique patient identifier systems have been successfully implemented in a number of countries. Finland introduced a personal identification number system in 1964, while New Zealand’s use of a unique health identifier dates back to 1977. Many other countries, including Britain, are in the process of introducing them.
While Hiqa has said a unique patient tracking system should also be put in place here “as soon as possible”, it notes its introduction would cost millions and acknowledges there is a shortage of resources in the current economic climate. But it stresses the investment would be recouped within a few years.